Communicating Geomorphology

Abstract

Communication strategies emphasize concerns for content (what is said) and process (the way things are said). Scientists have a responsibility to communicate the findings of their research, enhancing prospects that their insights can meaningfully inform management practice. When used effectively, principles from geomorphology provide critical guidance for environmental management. Three key geomorphic messages are outlined here: Respect diversity through communicating spatial and temporal controls upon landscape character and behaviour; Work with nature in conveying the range of behaviour of any given system; and Be proactive by determining the trajectory of landscape change. Uptake of geomorphic understanding reflects, among many factors, our ability to communicate findings clearly. In communicating these messages, different approaches are likely to prove more effective when addressing differing audiences, whether school/university classes, stakeholders, managers, politicians, or the broader community. Collective approaches to learning through dialogue are encouraged as they promote deeper learning, prospectively enhancing the uptake of geomorphic understanding, thereby promoting healthier environmental futures.

Keywords:

• Geomorphology
• communication
• place
• environmental management
• adaptive management
• fieldwork

Acknowledgements

This manuscript arose from a suggestion by David Higgitt. Indeed, David secured financial support from the National University of Singapore that enabled the author to present this paper as the Journal of Geography in Higher Education Annual Lecture at the International Association of Geomorphologists Regional Conference held in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia in July 2007. Thanks are offered to Claire Gregory, Emmy Macdonald, Maree McEntee, Susan Owen, Helen Sword, Irene Wallis and an anonymous referee for comments and discussions that greatly enhanced this contribution.